Bill Monroe

Actor-musician Bill Monroe made a splash in Hollywood both on and off-screen. Monroe worked on a variety of projects during his early entertainment career, including "Coal Miner's Daughter" (1980) starring Sissy Spacek, "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" (1987) starring Steve Martin and "Scruggs: His Family and Friends" (1985). He also contributed to "The 18th Annual Country Music Association Awards" (CBS, 1984-85), "The 19th Annual Country Music Association Awards" (CBS, 1985-86) and "The Money Pit" (1986) starring Tom Hanks. He also worked in television around this time, including a part on "Opry Backstage" (The Nashville Network, 1990-99). During these years, he additionally appeared in film, receiving a role in "High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music" (1993). He also contributed to a variety of television specials, including "The Grand Ole Opry 65th Anniversary Celebration: The New Tradition" (CBS, 1990-91) and "Fairs and Festivals: Georgia Mountain Fair" (The Nashville Network, 1990-91). Monroe's music was also a part of the dramatic adaptation "The New World" (1995) with Nicolas Chatel, the Steven Seagal action picture "Fire Down Below" (1997) and the drama "Lawn Dogs" (1998) with Mischa Barton. His music was also featured in the action flick "Men of Honor" (2000) with Robert De Niro. In addition to his music, Monroe also appeared on-screen in "Tycus" (1998) with Dennis Hopper. Most recently, Monroe appeared in "All Star Bluegrass Celebration" (PBS, 2001-02).